Psychiatrists in 50325

Photo of Alyssa Coughennower, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alyssa Coughennower
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clive, IA 50325
As a board-certified Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric assessment and medication management to ages 14 and up for a variety of mental health disorders. I started my nursing career 10 years ago and have found my passion in mental health. I take a holistic and interdisciplinary approach. I truly believe it takes more than just medication for one to become and stay well. I will present you with options that are evidence-based and we will come to a decision that is shared.
As a board-certified Psych/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric assessment and medication management to ages 14 and up for a variety of mental health disorders. I started my nursing career 10 years ago and have found my passion in mental health. I take a holistic and interdisciplinary approach. I truly believe it takes more than just medication for one to become and stay well. I will present you with options that are evidence-based and we will come to a decision that is shared.
(712) 373-2697 View (712) 373-2697
Photo of Adreanne Perkins, ARNP, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adreanne Perkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clive, IA 50325
I am here to provide options for people looking to improve his/her mental health with medication management or the use of supplements. Therapy is encouraged, but not required. I treat ages 10 years and older. I strive for patients wanting to be the best version of themselves and to be functional members of society. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments.
I am here to provide options for people looking to improve his/her mental health with medication management or the use of supplements. Therapy is encouraged, but not required. I treat ages 10 years and older. I strive for patients wanting to be the best version of themselves and to be functional members of society. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments.
(515) 855-6637 View (515) 855-6637
Photo of Patty Ferlitsch, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patty Ferlitsch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Clive, IA 50325
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and am accepting new clients ages 18+. I am passionate about whole body wellness and preventative care. My priority is to provide seamless collaborative care for each patient I treat. I believe it is essential to treat the patient and not just the disorder. I use an integrative approach to understanding one's biological, psychological, and social needs. I feel a patient- centered therapeutic approach is crucial to help patients' reach their goals.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and am accepting new clients ages 18+. I am passionate about whole body wellness and preventative care. My priority is to provide seamless collaborative care for each patient I treat. I believe it is essential to treat the patient and not just the disorder. I use an integrative approach to understanding one's biological, psychological, and social needs. I feel a patient- centered therapeutic approach is crucial to help patients' reach their goals.
(515) 800-4223 View (515) 800-4223
Photo of Johanna Hesseltine, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Johanna Hesseltine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clive, IA 50325
Currently accepting new patients! I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner, seeing both children and adults. Your mental health is unique, and your treatment should be individualized to your situation. My role is to collaborate with you as the patient, to prescribe and manage your psychiatric medications as well as evaluate health and lifestyle modifications that can help you reach your mental health goals. I use a patient-centered approach, that focuses on you, not just the diagnosis.
Currently accepting new patients! I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner, seeing both children and adults. Your mental health is unique, and your treatment should be individualized to your situation. My role is to collaborate with you as the patient, to prescribe and manage your psychiatric medications as well as evaluate health and lifestyle modifications that can help you reach your mental health goals. I use a patient-centered approach, that focuses on you, not just the diagnosis.
(515) 523-4933 View (515) 523-4933
Photo of Corey Weaver, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Corey Weaver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clive, IA 50325
Corey Weaver is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has worked in healthcare in the Des Moines area for over 20 years, which includes inpatient and outpatient mental health. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. He went on to earn his Masters of Science in Nursing at Allen College in Waterloo, Iowa. Corey provides patient centered care with individualized treatment plans. Corey’s specialties include depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse. Corey enjoys spending time with family, traveling, sports, and appreciates continual learning.
Corey Weaver is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has worked in healthcare in the Des Moines area for over 20 years, which includes inpatient and outpatient mental health. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University. He went on to earn his Masters of Science in Nursing at Allen College in Waterloo, Iowa. Corey provides patient centered care with individualized treatment plans. Corey’s specialties include depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse. Corey enjoys spending time with family, traveling, sports, and appreciates continual learning.
(515) 298-8840 View (515) 298-8840
Photo of Jena Weissenburger, RN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jena Weissenburger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Clive, IA 50325
Tired of side effects? Have medications stopped working? Ready for a change? Want a physician that listens? Want options?
Tired of side effects? Have medications stopped working? Ready for a change? Want a physician that listens? Want options?
(515) 368-7918 View (515) 368-7918

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Thomas Koithan, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Thomas Koithan
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
Dr. Koithan is a leading board-certified psychiatrist practicing in the greater Des Moines area since 1993.
Dr. Koithan is a leading board-certified psychiatrist practicing in the greater Des Moines area since 1993.
(515) 373-7253 View (515) 373-7253
Photo of Ruth Ann Powe, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ruth Ann Powe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50323  (Online Only)
License states: CA, FL, IA, NM, VA & WA. Meet Ruth, a seasoned PMHNP-BC with 22+ years of nursing experience. She specializes in treating various mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 13 years and older. Ruth holds a Post-Masters Certificate from the University of Southern Mississippi and an MSN from William Carey University. Her focus is on high-quality care, patient education, and overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Ruth for personalized care and a brighter future.
License states: CA, FL, IA, NM, VA & WA. Meet Ruth, a seasoned PMHNP-BC with 22+ years of nursing experience. She specializes in treating various mental health conditions, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 13 years and older. Ruth holds a Post-Masters Certificate from the University of Southern Mississippi and an MSN from William Carey University. Her focus is on high-quality care, patient education, and overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Ruth for personalized care and a brighter future.
(619) 639-1726 View (619) 639-1726
Photo of Chelsea Greer, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chelsea Greer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Life can be hard. Finding mental health support can be even harder! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience working in mental health- both inpatient and outpatient clinical experience. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional intensity, postpartum/prepartum issues, concentration/focus, sleep issues, etc., and would like to be evaluated for medication therapy to help you through, I am here to help. Change doesn't happen without change. Today is the day.
Life can be hard. Finding mental health support can be even harder! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience working in mental health- both inpatient and outpatient clinical experience. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional intensity, postpartum/prepartum issues, concentration/focus, sleep issues, etc., and would like to be evaluated for medication therapy to help you through, I am here to help. Change doesn't happen without change. Today is the day.
(515) 493-7899 View (515) 493-7899
Photo of Veronica Holloway - Veronica Holloway , MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Veronica Holloway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Taking the first steps towards improving your mental health can be intimidating. I sincerely want to help you in the journey to develop hope for the future, with renewed energy, strength and passion for life. I will be there helping and guiding you, to optimize your healing and health, with evidence based recommendations. Let's review your treatment goals and an action plan on how to achieve this. Please call to schedule your appointment 515-207-0110.
Accepting new patients! Taking the first steps towards improving your mental health can be intimidating. I sincerely want to help you in the journey to develop hope for the future, with renewed energy, strength and passion for life. I will be there helping and guiding you, to optimize your healing and health, with evidence based recommendations. Let's review your treatment goals and an action plan on how to achieve this. Please call to schedule your appointment 515-207-0110.
(319) 528-5111 View (319) 528-5111
Photo of Brooke Thielking, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brooke Thielking
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
I believe in the mind-body-spirit connection and this underlying philosophy emerges in my treatment approach. I provide medication management and utilize therapeutic communication techniques to help clients get to the root of their struggles.
I believe in the mind-body-spirit connection and this underlying philosophy emerges in my treatment approach. I provide medication management and utilize therapeutic communication techniques to help clients get to the root of their struggles.
(515) 446-7284 View (515) 446-7284
Photo of Angie Veenstra, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angie Veenstra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, treatment and medication management for ages 5 and up. My goal is for people to feel comfortable and confident about their treatment plan. This is accomplished with open communication, active listening on my part, and trying to gain an understanding of what is important to you. Together we will come up with a plan of care that may involve medications, but also will look at other options for testing and treatment as needed. I want you to live a life that is meaningful to you.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric assessment, treatment and medication management for ages 5 and up. My goal is for people to feel comfortable and confident about their treatment plan. This is accomplished with open communication, active listening on my part, and trying to gain an understanding of what is important to you. Together we will come up with a plan of care that may involve medications, but also will look at other options for testing and treatment as needed. I want you to live a life that is meaningful to you.
(515) 516-4895 View (515) 516-4895
Photo of Jodi Henning, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jodi Henning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who provides mental health care to all ages. I partner with you to improve mental health using a holistic approach which includes assessment, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and treatment options to improve symptomology of mental illness and promote self-efficacy. I bring over ten years of emergency and psychiatric nursing to my practice. I am committed to serving my clients with compassion, open communication, and kindness in a nonjudgmental environment. I value the importance of building lasting relationships through a working relationship.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who provides mental health care to all ages. I partner with you to improve mental health using a holistic approach which includes assessment, psychoeducation, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and treatment options to improve symptomology of mental illness and promote self-efficacy. I bring over ten years of emergency and psychiatric nursing to my practice. I am committed to serving my clients with compassion, open communication, and kindness in a nonjudgmental environment. I value the importance of building lasting relationships through a working relationship.
(515) 209-3796 View (515) 209-3796
Photo of Quentin Chambers - Alpha Allied Treatment Center, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alpha Allied Treatment Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266  (Online Only)
I am an independent, full practice psychiatric nurse practitioner, able to prescribe, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. I have spent the past 18yrs getting to know patients with Bipolar, Anxiety, ADD, Addiction and integrative psychiatry care. I find this group fascinating. I am interested in patients who are vested in their own mental health. If this is you, give me a call. Ask about our non-narcotics opiates withdrawal system, called "The Bridge" device. Almost 90% success rate. We are ready to help you.
I am an independent, full practice psychiatric nurse practitioner, able to prescribe, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. I have spent the past 18yrs getting to know patients with Bipolar, Anxiety, ADD, Addiction and integrative psychiatry care. I find this group fascinating. I am interested in patients who are vested in their own mental health. If this is you, give me a call. Ask about our non-narcotics opiates withdrawal system, called "The Bridge" device. Almost 90% success rate. We are ready to help you.
(515) 855-6659 View (515) 855-6659
Photo of Tara Smith, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse
Tara Smith
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
I have a passion for helping those with anxiety, depression, and trauma history. I provide care across the lifespan. I enjoy working with children and adolescents. I also have experience as a family nurse practitioner and various roles as a RN (women's health, labor and delivery, and child care).
I have a passion for helping those with anxiety, depression, and trauma history. I provide care across the lifespan. I enjoy working with children and adolescents. I also have experience as a family nurse practitioner and various roles as a RN (women's health, labor and delivery, and child care).
(515) 373-4768 View (515) 373-4768
Photo of Malkan Pilipovic, MSN, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Malkan Pilipovic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
Malkan is a highly skilled and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, dedicated to assisting clients in unlocking their innate potential and successfully navigating life's complex challenges. With an extensive background in psychiatry, Malkan offers personalized therapeutic strategies aimed at understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client. He utilizes an integrative approach, combining traditional psychiatric methods with innovative techniques to foster mental and emotional growth. His expertise extends to various areas, including mood disorders, anxiety, stress management, and personal development.
Malkan is a highly skilled and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner, dedicated to assisting clients in unlocking their innate potential and successfully navigating life's complex challenges. With an extensive background in psychiatry, Malkan offers personalized therapeutic strategies aimed at understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client. He utilizes an integrative approach, combining traditional psychiatric methods with innovative techniques to foster mental and emotional growth. His expertise extends to various areas, including mood disorders, anxiety, stress management, and personal development.
(515) 412-5112 View (515) 412-5112
Photo of Justin Janss, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Justin Janss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am dedicated to exploring every possible avenue that contributes to your personal journey towards health and wellness. My approach focuses on viewing and treating each individual holistically, recognizing that healing comes from within. With this understanding, I acknowledge that there are numerous paths to achieving the health and happiness you seek. Within my private practice, we have the flexibility and capacity to thoroughly address all aspects influencing your overall well-being. Mental health is interconnected with physical, spiritual, relational, and energetic well-being.
I am dedicated to exploring every possible avenue that contributes to your personal journey towards health and wellness. My approach focuses on viewing and treating each individual holistically, recognizing that healing comes from within. With this understanding, I acknowledge that there are numerous paths to achieving the health and happiness you seek. Within my private practice, we have the flexibility and capacity to thoroughly address all aspects influencing your overall well-being. Mental health is interconnected with physical, spiritual, relational, and energetic well-being.
(515) 220-2954 View (515) 220-2954
Photo of Cynthia A Okojie - Thoughtful Mind Psychiatry PLLC, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thoughtful Mind Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50323  (Online Only)
I am a Dual-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of extensive nursing experience. My philosophy is “people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care” (Theodore Roosevelt). I'm passionate about delivering compassionate care to patients dealing with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorders. I understand that different experiences through a patient's life journey can contribute to mental health issues. As such, I obtain detailed psychiatric history and work with patients to create a customized treatment plan.
I am a Dual-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of extensive nursing experience. My philosophy is “people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care” (Theodore Roosevelt). I'm passionate about delivering compassionate care to patients dealing with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorders. I understand that different experiences through a patient's life journey can contribute to mental health issues. As such, I obtain detailed psychiatric history and work with patients to create a customized treatment plan.
(832) 572-5136 View (832) 572-5136
Photo of Clinton Webb - Embrace Health, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Embrace Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266  (Online Only)
I'm Clint Webb. Through my telehealth psychiatric practice, I help people experiencing challenges stemming from trauma, mental health issues, family dynamics, or substance abuse. I utilize a wide variety of assessments when working with clients to understand what they're going through. I help my patients reach their goals using evidence-based treatments that include medication management, therapy and counseling. I'll help you gain the coping and communication skills to live a healthier, happier life.
I'm Clint Webb. Through my telehealth psychiatric practice, I help people experiencing challenges stemming from trauma, mental health issues, family dynamics, or substance abuse. I utilize a wide variety of assessments when working with clients to understand what they're going through. I help my patients reach their goals using evidence-based treatments that include medication management, therapy and counseling. I'll help you gain the coping and communication skills to live a healthier, happier life.
(515) 579-5046 View (515) 579-5046
Photo of Megan Eichmeier, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Megan Eichmeier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Accepting new patients! My name is Megan Eichmeier. I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I've been working in mental health nursing for over 15 years. Empowering individuals to actively participate in their treatment journey and make informed decisions about their mental health is my priority. I work with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, education, lifestyle modifications, and other evidence-based interventions.
Accepting new patients! My name is Megan Eichmeier. I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I've been working in mental health nursing for over 15 years. Empowering individuals to actively participate in their treatment journey and make informed decisions about their mental health is my priority. I work with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, education, lifestyle modifications, and other evidence-based interventions.
(515) 690-6450 x1 View (515) 690-6450 x1

See more therapy options for 50325

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 50325

< 10

Psychiatrists in 50325 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Bipolar Disorder
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
83% Borderline Personality (BPD)
83% Medication Management

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
100% Wellmark BCBS
83% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 50325 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 50325?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.